Read Everything but love :: Chapter 8

The waiting room, bathed in soft light, held rows of worn chairs beneath serene artwork. Conversations murmured, punctuated by occasional coughs. A vending machine hummed quietly in one corner, offering small comforts. A television played softly on the wall despite attempts at tranquility. Amid the acrid smell of antiseptics, the tension is palpable, each occupant caught between hope and fear. In this liminal space of St. Margaret's Hospital, time seemed suspended, as if the world outside held its breath while Oscar is waiting for some news. His mother who accompanied him left 1 hour ago with always the same excuse: work. Even if it annoys him that she doesn't stay at her father's bedside, he is happy because her absence allows him to breathe easily.

Soon, a nurse arrived to tell him that his father had woken up and that he could see him for a few minutes. She leads him to the patient's room, making sure to explain in detail the rules to follow and warns him of the importance of respecting visiting hours. The door opens to reveal Oscar. The sterile smell of the room embraces him as he looks for his father with his eyes. There in the middle, surrounded by respiratory devices and medicinal utensils, a frail man lies on a large hospital bed. Mr Walter has sunken cheeks, his breathing is heavy and distressing and anyone can see that he is in pain. Oscar, with tears in his eyes, rushes towards the latter and put one knee on the ground.

"Dad..." his voice trembling, as if on the brink of shattering.

Dorian Walter, formerly called Dorian Grace. A lovely person with an angelic smile. It is said that in his youth he turned many heads. He was the most coveted jewel of his generation. He grew up surrounded by six sisters. Being the only omega in the family, his role was to ensure a profitable marriage for his parents. Which he succeeded because he married Anne Marie Walter, the one who would be the president of the Crownvale association. Dorian dreamed of a home full of love and Anne, of unrivaled descendants and above all of power. No one knows what brought these two totally opposite beings together. What we know for sure is that they really loved each other. They loved each other with a love that could have moved mountains. With each passing day, their love blossomed, transcending barriers and conquering doubts. Hand in hand, they navigated life's labyrinth, guided by the unbreakable thread of devotion. In the symphony of existence, their love was the melody, harmonizing with the rhythm of their beating hearts. Together, they were unstoppable, writing their love story in the stars. One day, Dorian became pregnant. His dearest dream was finally going to come true.

However, his pregnancy was difficult and left him with lingering health consequences, testing the strength of their bond. He learned that he would no longer be able to have more children but did not feel sorry for himself. He decided to cherish this one piece of flesh that he had created. The angel he once was lost his wings. But it was only an insignificant detail for him because he had gained something more important. His one and only son, the apple of his eye.

Mr. Walter looked at Oscar as he threw himself at the foot of the bed and collapsed in apology. He didn't look at him with any hatred, on the contrary his smile widened and it seemed for a moment that he regained his vitality. He put his hand on his head as a sign of consolation.

"Don't cry honey, it's just the usual. I will be home in no time. I'm glad you're here. I was so impatient to show you. Hmm,hum? What was it?...Ah! You need to go home, yes. I planted a magnificent rose bush. You have to see it. I'm not as strong as you in this domain but I'm sure you'll love it. You like roses, right? Of course, what am I saying? He used to give them to you all the time. Mr...hm, what was his name? Professor...cough!" he started coughing violently, which made Oscar panic.

"Dad, don't say anything. You need to rest"

The nurse rushed in and asked him to leave but he refused, insisting on staying with his father. Mr Walter, who had calmed down, was now muttering something. Thomas burst into the room and helped the nurse get Oscar out, who struggled a little.